Monthly Archives: January 2011

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Join KLRU and the Austin Public Library for free Community Cinema screenings on the first Tuesday of the month at the Windsor Park Branch Library (5833 Westminster Dr,). Screenings will start at 7 p.m. with a discussion to follow each of the films. The next screening will be Me Facing Life: Cyntoia’s Story on February 1st.

Me Facing Life: Cyntoia’s Story
Follows the sad and startling story of Cyntoia Brown, who is serving a life sentence for murder at the age of 16. The camera first glimpses her the week of her arrest at age 16 and follows her for nearly six years. Along the way, nationally renown juvenile forensic psychiatrist, Dr. William Bernet from Vanderbilt University, assesses her situation.

Nature at 7 p.m. Sunday explores how being born in the wild has evolved over time, and how animals interacting with their young, wrestling with the feelings and dilemmas that come with raising a baby, can mirror our own experiences on “Born Wild: The First Days of Life”.

Masterpiece Classic at 8 p.m. Sunday presents part four of Oscar-winning writer Julian Fellowes‘ “Downtown Abbey”, a depiction of the lives of the noble Crawley family and the staff who serve them, set at their Edwardian country house in 1912.

Drawing on scientific accounts, diaries, photographs and letters, “The Greely Expedition: American Experience” at 8 p.m. Monday tells a harrowing tale of one of the great scientific adventures of all time and reveals the nearly unbearable pressures experienced by the members of Lieutenant Adolphus Greely’s 1881 Arctic expedition.

“Chautauqua: An American Narrative” at 9 p.m. Monday traces the institution’s history and impact, captures its contemporary essence and energy, and illustrates what makes it one of the most distinctive summer destinations in America.

“New Glass at Wheaton” at 10 p.m. Monday explores the world of New Jersey’s Creative Glass Center of America by following three young residents as they manipulate glass in new and unexpected ways.

Children of the Revolution at 10:30 p.m. Monday presents “Charles Barrett”, the fascinating family story as told by the San Antonio car dealership entrepreneur of his father‘s strives and obstacles in old Mexico.

Pioneers of Television at 7 p.m. Tuesday presents “Crime Dramas”, an exploration of how creative geniuses have emerged over time as viewers reveled in being transported to the shadowy underworlds of crime stories.

Frontline at 8 p.m. Tuesday reports an investigation regarding autopsies in America and discovers why murderers go free and innocent people go to jail, while the crisis in death investigation in America is also becoming more of a threat to public health.

Independent Lens at 9 p.m. Tuesday presents the story of the Spirit of Goodwill Band, a group of musicians and singers who all have severe mental and physical disabilities who are given the opportunity to display their talent, humor, and tenacity in “For Once In My Life.”

Music of the Norman Petty Studios at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday documents the career of Norman Petty, 1950’s music producer and pioneer in the evolution of Rock and Roll who influenced notable musicians such as the Beatles and Rolling Stones.

Nova ScienceNow at 7 p.m. Wednesday explores how new science and developments can help us understand how the brain allows us to think, act, feel, behave and process the world around us.

Go behind the scenes and explore how materials changed history and are shaping the future as New York Times’ technology correspondent and best-selling author David Pogue brings his trademark goofball humor and techie zeal to this exploration of the future of “stuff” on Nova: Making Stuff Cleaner at 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Green Builders at 9 p.m. Wednesday profiles a cast of green building pioneers who have taken the leap into making their part of the “built environment” a more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly place.

Austin City Limits presents Texas country legends Lyle Lovett and Bob Schneider as they wrap up the latest season of the series at 10 p.m. Wednesday and 9 p.m. Friday.

Chely Wright talks about coming out as the first openly gay country music star on Overheard with Evan Smith at 7 p.m. Thursday and 8:30 p.m. Friday.

Join Chet Garner as he travels to Beaumont, Texas to experience Texas cajun culture at its finest, the city‘s rich oil history, and a paddling ride down Village Creek on The Daytripper at 8:30 p.m. Thursday.

Legends and Lyrics presents exclusive performance from Susan Tedeschi, Kip Winger, and James Slater- three singer-songwriters that blends the genres of blues and pop at 9 p.m. Thursday.

Rock superstars the Dave Matthews Band take the stage on Austin City Limits with hits and songs from their latest album Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King at 7 p.m. Saturday.

The PBS KIDS GO! Writers Contest is a contest designed to promote the advancement of children’s reading skills through hands-on, active learning. The Contest encourages children in grades K-3 in communities across the country to celebrate the power of creating stories and illustrations by submitting their own original pieces. The Contest extends the powerful tradition and annual success of the 15-year national “Reading Rainbow Young Writers and Illustrators Contest.”

KLRU’s launch date is February 1st but parents and schools may start working on their stories right now! Just download the writers guide to help you and your child with the story development and look through the contest rules to make sure that you understand your child’s grade criteria. The contest entry deadline is Friday, March 25th (postmarked or delivered).

Starting at 10 am each Saturday in February, KLRU Create offers viewers themed programming to get you started on various projects. KLRU Create is on channel 18.2 over the air.

February 5 Big Game Snack Attack
With Superbowl Sunday just one day away, you’d better plan a giant “snack attack” for your fellow sports fans. Whether its burgers, chicken wings, or bratwurst that are your favorites; Steven Raichlen, John Shields and Katie Brown will provide inspiration for a fun-filled afternoon with friends and family. Chef Hubert Keller demonstrates that beer isn’t just for drinking, with his recipe for beer battered onion rings. We may not know who will win the big game, but we do know that your menu will be filled with tasty treats!

February 12 Be My Valentine
This marathon is dedicated to the “LOVE” holiday – Valentine’s Day! Romance your honey with a special dinner and chocolate dessert just for two. Give a simple red rose or travel to the most romantic city in the world, Paris, to sip champagne. Our CREATE cupids, Katie Brown, Julia Child and Burt Wolf will show you how to make February 14th an unforgettable day!

February 19 African Roots
Come with world travelers, Rick Steves’, Art Wolfe, and Joseph Rosendo to the vast continent of Africa. From the northern countries to the most southern tip, and everything in between, you’ll be on a fantastic voyage! You’ll scale to the top of the pyramids in Egypt, go wine tasting in South Africa and on safari in Kenya. Then go into the kitchen with Chef John Folse and cultural expert Burt Wolf to learn about the African influences in American recipes. African roots stretch far and wide!

February 26 Island Hoppin’
Today’s programming will spark the imagination to flights of fancy — to exotic island locations around the world. On today’s television journey, the CREATE viewer will travel to the islands of Maui, Hawaii, Oahu and Kaua, as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands, New Zealand, Fiji and Guam. What a relaxing – and possibly inspiring — Saturday!

As your PBS station, it is KLRU’s mission to bring people together around important issues. KLRU does this through various educational and outreach initiatives. This year, KLRU will present 2nd Half of Life project. Created for one of the best-educated, healthiest, and most privileged generations in American history — the Boomers — the series aims to help people reinvent life after the age of 50. In the coming months, 2nd Half of Life presents episodes of Growing Bolder on Sundays at 10:30 am.

This month’s episodes:

Feb. 6 Never Give Up
I Will Never Give Up – Scot Weiss loves what he’s doing but admits it’s a daily struggle. Weiss left a promising career in finance to chase an American dream – inventing a product and starting a company. Now, he’s discovering the importance of belief and the power of persistence. How Did They Get That Photo? – In 40 years as a photojournalist, Red Huber covered some of the biggest news events of our time. Some of his most famous – and breathtaking – photos are his shots of space shuttle launches. How does he do it? Tech Minute: Tech Trends – Twitter, YouTube, GPS…all words many of us didn’t know five years ago, and now we use them on a daily basis! So what are the next tech trends? Time to take a look.

Feb. 13 Make A Difference
Big Name, Big Cause, Big Fun – Annika Sorenstam is one of the greatest golfers in the history of the game, and now she’s making a difference in another field – the fight against breast cancer. See how she’s teaming up with some passionate women to stop the disease. Ruth Hamilton: World’s Oldest Blogger – We believe it’s about attitude, whether you’re 9 or 109 years old. Ruth Hamilton passed away in 2008, but left us some amazing video blogs – a legacy for those who didn’t have the privilege of getting to know her in person. Tech Minute: Pandora Radio – Love to listen to music? Try one of the hottest services on the Web – it helps you discover old favorites and new hits, all based on your interests! Silver Sneakers – The next time you go to your gym, take a look around. People of all ages are working out! Silver Sneakers focuses on those who are over 60. In many cases, the program is free, and classes are available all across the nation. As you’ll see, the program is changing lives!

Feb. 20 Second Acts
A Glass Act – For 40 years, Ida Bransford has been on the lookout for the depression glass that reminds her of her youth. In this “Growing Bolder” exclusive, we take you inside a home that many have heard about but few have actually seen. Doorway to Happiness – Larry Roofner was a corporate executive, a move and shaker and a big-time success. And it nearly killed him. So he walked away from it all, and at 52, he reinvented himself. One door led to another, until the doors themselves changed his life. Tech Minute: Blogging – In December 1997, the “weblog” was born. Within two years, it was better known as a blog – and today, more than 112 million blogs are posted on the Internet! Are you ready to share your stories online? Sonic Soup for the Soul – He’s written music for NBC sports, artist Thomas Kinkade and for a 3-year-old victim of child abuse. Wayne’s music has been described as sonic soup for the soul. You’ll wonder why you’ve never heard of him before.

Feb. 27 Run, Don’t Walk
Tom Keeps Time Ticking – Tom Bransford likes to hang out with some very old friends – some that date back to 753. He’s one of the last of a vanishing trade…a qualified clock repairman. Unleashing the Dragon (Boats) – A group of breast cancer survivors and advocates take the idea of pulling together to a whole new level. They recently competed at the International Dragon Boat Festival and these big boats mean big fun and a big impact. Tech Minute: Editing Photos – These days, getting great pictures is a snap – even after the camera is put away! The Streaker – He’s no Forrest Gump, but he has been running, and running, and running some more!

PBS Education has been asked to solicit questions from teachers about the education issues addressed in President Obama’s State of the Union address on Tuesday, January 25th. A sampling of popular questions will be posed to Secretary of Education Arne Duncan during the livestreamed Education Roundtable event this Thursday, January 27th at 3:15pm ET.

A film screening and performance/panel siscussion of the locally-produced film When I Rise will take place Thursday, Feb 3, 6:30 pm at LBJ Auditorium, 2313 Red River, Austin, Texas (map)

“When I Rise” profiles Barbara Smith Conrad, a gifted University of Texas music student, who finds herself at the epicenter of racial controversy, struggling against the odds and ultimately ascending to the heights of international opera.

The Feb. 3 screening will be followed by a performance by Barbara Smith Conrad, mezzo-soprano, and Icy Simpson. Simpson, soprano, is currently completing an Artist Diploma in Opera Performance at UT Austin and she is also featured in the film. They will be accompanied by pianist, Richard Masters.

There will also be a panel discussion moderated by Don Carleton featuring
Mat Hames, Director, When I Rise
Barbara Smith Conrad, mezzo-soprano
Icy Simpson, soprano

When I Rise will air on KLRU Tuesday, Feb. 8, at 9 pm, Thursday, Feb. 10, at 8 pm and Sunday, Feb. 13 at 3 pm.

KLRU-TV, AUSTIN PBS, ANNOUNCES PUBLIC CELEBRATION OF AUSTIN CITY LIMITS’ NEW HOME SPONSORED BY CIRRUS LOGIC

CELEBRATION INCLUDES PUBLIC CONCERT BY STEVE MILLER BAND
MILLER’S PERFORMANCE WILL BE FIRST ACL TAPING AT THE MOODY THEATER

TAPING WILL BE PRECEDED BY 2ND ST. SOUNDCHECK – A FREE STREET PARTY & MUSIC EVENT PRESENTED BY BUSINESSES OF THE 2ND STREET DISTRICT

Austin, TX – KLRU and The 2nd Street District invite the public to come downtown for 2ND ST. SOUNDCHECK — a special free party with music, events and more, sponsored by the businesses of The 2nd Street District. The 2ND ST. SOUNDCHECK will celebrate AUSTIN CITY LIMITS’ new home at The Moody Theater and will take place throughout The 2nd Street District on Saturday, February 26 from 3 to 8 p.m. The evening’s celebration is also sponsored in part by Cirrus Logic and The Moody Foundation.

The evening will culminate with the first AUSTIN CITY LIMITS taping in The Moody Theater featuring a 90-minute performance by Steve Miller Band including new material from his soon-to-be-released new Blues Rock album entitled “Let Your Hair Down.”

“KLRU and AUSTIN CITY LIMITS are grateful to Cirrus Logic for stepping forward to support this public welcoming of AUSTIN CITY LIMITS to its new downtown home,” said Austin City Limits Executive Producer Terry Lickona. “It’s been a dream to be able to give AUSTIN CITY LIMITS its own place in the skyline.”

“Cirrus Logic is proud to present Austin City Limits’ premier celebration at the new Moody Theater,” said Jason Rhode, Cirrus Logic president and CEO. “We look forward to becoming one of ACL’s neighbors when our new headquarters is completed in the summer of 2012, placing the company in the heart of downtown’s vibrant live music, restaurant and retail scene. We are pleased to continue our support of KLRU and ACL and its great gift of incredible music performances.”

“The businesses of The 2nd Street District are thrilled to welcome AUSTIN CITY LIMITS to what can now, surely be deemed the coolest neighborhood in town,” said Julie Sutton-McGurk, Retail Marketing Manager for The 2nd Street District. “And we will do so in quintessential Austin style – by throwing 2ND ST. SOUNDCHECK, a street party filled with live music, great food, and of course, what truly makes this city the special place that it is, the people that call Austin ‘home.’”

The new Moody Theater includes a state-of-the-art digital production system, supported in part by a $2.5 million matching grant from The Moody Foundation, one of the nation’s largest private foundations. Developed by Stratus Properties, the new home of AUSTIN CITY LIMITS will enable more fans to watch future live tapings of the show and provide an enhanced experience while maintaining the intimacy, character and integrity that have been the hallmark of AUSTIN CITY LIMITS for more than three decades.

KLRU is currently engaged in a capital campaign to raise the funds needed to complete the equipment acquisition and installation.

“Thanks to the vision of Stratus Properties and the generosity of The Moody Foundation and other major donors, we are proud to be part of the energy and vibrancy of The 2nd Street District,” said KLRU CEO Bill Stotesbery.

On Saturday, February 26, 2nd Street will be closed all day to allow for street entertainers and special performances by Matt Wilson, Dale Watson & His Lone Stars and Rick Trevino. Retailers and restaurants will be open and programming special activities as part of the event. Immediately following the 2ND ST. SOUNDCHECK, doors will open for the AUSTIN CITY LIMITS taping in the new state-of-the-art venue.

Lauded rock guitarist Steve Miller and his band have been inspiring fans for more than four decades with Miller’s unique brand of rousing American rock ‘n’ roll. His catalog includes 17 studio albums and multiple hit singles including “The Joker,” “Take The Money and Run,” “Jet Airliner,” “Abracadabra” and more. This will be Steve Miller’s first performance on AUSTIN CITY LIMITS.

For more information on how to get a ticket to the AUSTIN CITY LIMITS taping go to austincitylimits.org. Tickets are limited and you must have a ticket to be able to attend the taping.

For more information or a schedule of events for 2ND ST. SOUNDCHECK and additional opportunities to get tickets to the first AUSTIN CITY LIMITS taping go to 2ndstreetdistrict.com

This year’s Texas School Ready! Summit brings together some of the brightest minds and leadership—from across Texas and the nation to discuss a pressing issue for our state: Autism Spectrum Disorder. This summit takes place at KLRU on Tuesday, January 25th.

The focus of the Summit will be to provide a better understanding of Autism, how to detect it early and assess it properly, gain insights into medically associated conditions and treatments, and learn how early childhood programs and teachers can smartly work to be responsive to the needs of children with developmental delays.

Go to the live webcast of the event from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm Tuesday, January 25, at texaspbs.org

Back by popular demand, the producers of the animated PBS KIDS GO! series Cyberchase have re-launched the Cyberchase PlaySpace with exciting new features for mixed-media storytelling at home and in the classroom.

Responding to video and text prompts drawn from the show, kids create stories using different media – drawing tools, photos, text and more – to share via e-mail or print when completed. Features on the new PlaySpace include video prompts (pictured here), photo upload capability and dozens of stickers featuring Cyberchase characters and other fun items from the show.

The new PlaySpace also includes all-new tools for educators which allow them to use the game to reinforce and assess students’ math comprehension. Logging in through a PBS Teachers account at http://pbs.org/cyberchase/playspace/teacher.php, educators can write their own prompts tailored to students’ needs, or select from available Cyberchase video and text prompts covering different math topics.